Bloodstream infections: the problem and the challenge.

Bloodstream infections (BSI) are an indisputable cause of morbidity and mortality. These infections may originate in the community setting among healthy individuals or among patients actively receiving healthcare as on dialysis, chemotherapy, etc. The largest numbers of BSI, however, are nosocomial. Rates of nosocomial BSI are highest in ICU's but the greatest numbers of cases occur in non-ICU settings. Many are catheter related. Application of simple principles of intravenous catheter placement and maintenance can markedly reduce nosocomial BSI. Although treatment of BSI can be difficult, the greatest challenge is preventing these infections.